The launch of the last Space Shuttle mission in July is quickly approaching and it seems NASA is using the occasion to test out an idea that, if found to be successful, could revolutionize how satellites are maintained in orbit.

Rather than losing a satellite once its fuel has run out, the Robotic Refueling Mission (RRM) would be able to refuel the satellite, even if the satellite is not designed to be refueled in orbit. Typically, satellites are fueled on the ground through a valve that is then triple-sealed and covered with a protective blanket. The RRM would allow a remote-controlled robot to remove these barriers to perform a refueling. Just like a full service gas station, the RRM would also be able to perform minor satellite repairs.

The RRM will be transferred from the Space Shuttle to the ISS after docking as part of STS-135, the name of the Space Shuttle’s last mission. A space walk is planned to perform the transfer after which it will be attached externally to be used in association with Dextre, one of the robotic arms on the ISS. In addition to utilizing Dextre, other RRM tools include the Wire Cutter and Blanket Manipulation Tool, a Multifunction Tool, Safety Cap Removal Tool and the Nozzle Tool. Dextre will test the feasibility of in-orbit refueling tasks and repairs using test hardware which includes simulated caps, valves, external thermal blankets and ethanol fuel.

If testing is successful, the next step will be to put the system on an actual mission to save a weather satellite that is about to run out of fuel. That mission is currently slated to occur in May 2013. In addition to re-fueling, any satellite serviced by the RRM would be modified to allow for easier refueling next time round.